Convictions

How I Learned What Matters Most

About the Book

On the occasion of his 70th birthday, the renowned Marcus J. Borg shares his "convictions" about Christianity and America, contending that they are both at their best when they focus on hope and transformation, and shares his thoughts on how American Christians can return to what matters most

Reflecting on what matters most, both for the church and for Americans, leading biblical scholar and premiere teacher for Protestant churches, Marcus Borg surveys the most significant conversations and personalities that shaped his life, and presents his convictions about the faith and it's role in the twenty-first century.

Meditating on what makes us feel at home, he calls all American Christians to reject divisiveness and exclusivity and create communities that celebrate joy, possibility, and renewal. Throughout, he reflects on what matters most, bringing to earth the kingdom of God Jesus talked about and transforming our relationships with one another.

Book Description

Marcus J. Borg, preeminent theologian and Bible scholar, refects on his life and how he developed his most bedrock convictions and why they matter. the result is a manifesto for all progressive Christians who seek the best path for following Jesus today. With each chapter embodying a distinct conviction, Borg writes provocatively and compellingly on the beliefs that can deeply ground us and guide us:

God Is Real and a Mystery

Salvation Is More About This Life Than an Afterlife

The Bible Can Be True Without Being Literally True

Jesus's Death on the Cross Matters—But Not Because He Paid for Our Sins

God Is Passionate About Justice and the Poor

To Love God Is to Love Like God

Rich in wisdom and insight, Convictions is sure to, become a classic of contemporary Christianity.

Educator and Librarian Resources

Critical Praise

Both challenging and illuminating. — Karen Armstrong, author of A History of God

Writing with a simplicity that never becomes simplistic, Borg manages to convey the essence of Christianity in a way that does justice to those who do not share his views and will greatly enrich the understanding of those who do. — Frederick Buechner, author of Telling the Truth

Marcus Borg is a key force in the emerging “new paradigm” of Christian faith. — Walter Brueggemann, author of Sabbath as Resistance

In every generation there are a handful of writers of whom it can be said, “Read everything they write.” Marcus Borg is one of these today. — Walter Wink, author of The Human Being

All Christians and those interested in Christianity from a distance should read all his books. — Thomas Moore, author of Care of the Soul

“In every generation there are a handful of writers of whom it can be said, “Read everything they write.” Marcus Borg is one of these today.” — Walter Wink, author of The Human Being

“All Christians and those interested in Christianity from a distance should read all his books.” — Thomas Moore, author of Care of the Soul

“Conveys an overall message that is both simple and urgently needed: Change is a good and natural part of Christian life.” — Read The Spirit

“An excellent introduction for general readers who stand outside the Christian tradition as well as those interested in considering how faith changes as they mature.” — Booklist

“He writes honestly and clearly, defining as he goes, always educating. He does not shy from laying out controversies among contemporary Christians [but] he closes with wonder.” — Publishers Weekly

One of those rare books . . . simply written [and] deep enough to inspire serious thought...Everyone would do well to pick it up, examine Dr. Borg’s personal convictions, and glean from a man with so much life experience and spiritual wisdom. — Clarion Journal of Spirituality and Justice

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